Textron bows out of T-X-interested in OA-X

Textron has decided to forgo the T-X program. They have said that it is a program designed around a specific set of requirements that are different
than what Scorpion was designed for. They are interested in the upcoming OA-X program though.

The OA-X invitations are being sent out this week, with the program happening at Holloman AFB this summer. It's designed to be built around off the
shelf technologies and aircraft. The Scorpion may prove to be a good fit for that program.

Are the USAF brass as enamored with the Scorpion as everyone else is? It seems like it was designed from the start to be a tough, versatile, and
cheap COIN/CAS truck that still has the ability to make the fighter mafia get that funny feeling in their pants when they look at it (which the A-37,
OV-10, and A-10 were never able to do).

Though I wonder how the USAF guys are going to feel about training the next generation of Air Force fighter jocks in what basically amounts to a "My
First F/A-18".

Yeah I saw this earlier. Seems Textron is really angling for the (eventual) contract. Personally I would love to see the Scorpion with the high speed
wing concept. That would be very interesting as a platform.

Textron is testing a 20mm cannon, as well as a .50 cal HMP 400 pod at Pax River, ahead of the OA-X test this summer. They're expanding the flight
envelope, and improving the stores computer. They also plan on demonstrating 25 lb BDU-33, and 500 lb MK-82 bombs. They've previously tested the
GBU-12 Paveway II, and APKWS.

The more I look at these aircraft I like the AT-6B Wolverine the most. It's commonality with the AF, Army and Navy programs already out there will
mean it will be easier to get technicians and staff trained for the units. A built in ISR pod and holding more fuel are the winners for me though.
These aircraft might need to hang out for a while to cover extractions or watch the bad guys.

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